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Nephrology & Renal Medicine

Aristolochic Acid Nephropathy (Balkan Endemic Nephropathy)

ICD-10 Code
N14.4

Rapidly progressive tubulointerstitial nephritis caused by ingestion of Aristolochic acid (found in certain Chinese herbal weight-loss remedies or contaminated wheat in the Balkans). Extremely high risk of upper tract urothelial cancer.

Clinical Presentation & Protocol

Patient Usually Complains Of

Patient presents with progressive decline in renal function. History significant for exposure to Aristolochic acid via [herbal supplements/contaminated grain]. Symptoms include polyuria, nocturia, and anemia disproportionate to the degree of renal impairment. No history of hypertension or diabetes.

Clinical Examination Findings

General appearance: Pale, chronically ill. Vitals: Normotensive or mildly hypertensive. Skin: No rashes or signs of systemic vasculitis. Edema: Absent or minimal. Neurological: No signs of uremic encephalopathy.

Treatment Protocol

Immediate cessation of all Aristolochic acid-containing substances. Supportive care for CKD. Strict monitoring for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) via serial urine cytology and periodic CT urography/ureteroscopy. ACE inhibitors/ARBs for proteinuria management.

Detailed clinical guide coming soon.